Networking During a Pandemic: How to Expand Your Network Virtually

The COVID-19 pandemic has presented all of us with many challenges. Young professionals and business owners in particular have taken big hits, as traditional avenues and places for networking are now closed, relying on social distancing measures or open with limited hours. However, even in the toughest times, creative individuals can thrive! There are still many ways to expand your network virtually during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Look to Expand Your Network

First, think about where your existing connections are and how can you better diversify them. Are there hobbies that you have that you could join groups for? Did you start watching a new television show you love during quarantine? Did your neighborhood start a socially-distanced coffee hour once a week? Keep your eyes peeled for new opportunities to meet new people. Remember that growing your network does not just mean joining professional groups, but also expanding the people who you know and the people who know you!

Think Globally

The pandemic has taught many companies of every size that there is no such thing as only doing business locally anymore. Expand your network by looking for groups in other states, cities and even countries where you can meet new professionals and get remote opportunities. Now is the perfect time to expand your network, as conferences that used to be across the world or expensive can now be found online at a substantial discount.

Get Your Foot in the Door

Because most of us are now working from home and online more, it’s also easy to expand your network and get your foot in the door through digital content. The best way to meet someone new is still being introduced by a mutual acquaintance. However, if you don’t have that option, try to engage someone you would like to talk with through content they have published on the internet, like a blog post or a LinkedIn post they created. Never approach someone you would like in your network by immediately demanding something of them, like an explanation of a concept. Instead, do the work yourself and bring thoughtful questions to them to engage with them. When you add value and create meaningful conversations, your network will constantly grow organically.

Expand Your Network with Benjamin Preston

Benjamin Preston works with young professionals and anyone craving a fulfilling career path through coaching, training, career mapping and workshops. Benjamin believes that we all have the ability to live purposeful lives today, and that we don’t need to keep putting off the career and life that we have always dreamed of. To learn more about his services for business and individuals, visit his website here.

Originally published at https://benjaminpreston.com.